Are you thinking of pursuing an engineering career in Australia? Discover the Highest Paid Engineering Jobs in Australia, in today’s fast-changing job market, including an in-depth view of roles, salary range, skills and education qualifications.
The high paying engineering jobs highlighted in this article were carefully chosen based on several key criteria. Average Salary Range, Industry Demand, Future Growth Potential and Relevance to Australia’s Economy. By considering these factors, we aimed to provide a list that highlights well-compensated positions and offers viable and promising career paths for aspiring engineers.
The salary ranges and job descriptions for each engineering role are from reputable sources. These include the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), Engineers Australia, and job sites like SEEK, Indeed, and LinkedIn.
List of Engineering Jobs with High Salary
1. Data Engineering Manager
Role Overview
The Data Engineering Manager oversees data systems and infrastructure development and optimisation. This key leadership role involves managing a team of data engineers to ensure that data flows seamlessly and is accessible for analysis, thereby supporting data-driven decision-making processes across the organisation.
Salary Range
AUD 150,000 to AUD 220,000 annually, based on experience, location, and industry sector.
Key Competencies and Skills
- Proficiency in data architecture and modeling
- Expertise in SQL and other data management systems
- Strong leadership and team management skills
- Excellent problem-solving abilities
- Profound knowledge of Big Data technologies and tools
- Experience in data governance and compliance
- Ability to liaise between technical and non-technical stakeholders
- Exceptional communication and project management skills
Qualifications
Candidates should ideally have a Bachelor’s in Computer Science, IT, or a related field. Many employers prefer those with a Master’s or advanced data engineering or data science certifications.
2. Petroleum Engineer
Role Overview
A Petroleum Engineer extracts oil and gas from below the Earth’s surface. This vital job includes assessing reservoirs, managing drilling, and finding the best extraction methods. They ensure the process is safe, efficient, and environmentally friendly.
Salary Range
AUD 130,000 to AUD 250,000 annually. This variance accounts for location, skill, experience, and sector.
Key Competencies and Skills
- Advanced understanding of geology and geophysics
- Proficiency in reservoir simulation and petroleum geoscience tools
- Solid analytical and problem-solving skills
- Strong project management and leadership capabilities
- In-depth knowledge of safety and environmental regulations
- Effective communication skills, both verbal and written
- Ability to work in multidisciplinary teams and adapt to challenging environments
- Continuous learning mindset to stay updated with the latest industry technologies and methods
Qualifications
A bachelor’s degree in Petroleum, Chemical Engineering, or Mechanical Engineering, or a related field is required. A Master’s degree or higher in Petroleum Engineering can boost a candidate’s qualifications. This is especially true for senior positions. Professional certification, such as a license from Engineers Australia, is also highly regarded.
3. Software Engineering Manager
Role Overview
A Software Engineering Manager, leads the software team. They guide the creation, implementation, and maintenance of software applications. This pivotal role involves coordinating project activities. They range from design to deployment. The goal is to ensure high-quality software that meets client and company standards. This managerial role requires technical skills and great leadership. It seeks to build teamwork, innovation, and continuous improvement.
Salary Range
AUD 160,000 to AUD 230,000 annually. This range depends on three factors. They are: the person’s experience, the employer’s size and industry, and the complexity of the software projects managed.
Key Competencies and Skills
- Profound knowledge of software development methodologies and lifecycle
- Expertise in programming languages and development frameworks
- Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities
- Effective team leadership and management skills
- Ability to drive technical innovation and efficiency in software development processes
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to engage with team members, stakeholders, and clients
- Solid understanding of budgeting and project management principles
- A commitment to ongoing learning and to new tech and trends
Qualifications
A Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or a related field is required. A Master’s degree or an MBA in technology management greatly boosts a candidate’s appeal for leadership roles.
A PMP or PRINCE2 certification in project management can boost a candidate’s qualifications. So can an AWS or Microsoft Azure Solutions Architect certification in specific technologies.
4. Subsea Engineer
Role Overview
Subsea Engineering is pivotal in designing, implementing, and maintaining the equipment and infrastructure for offshore oil and gas production and exploration underwater. This role covers a broad spectrum of tasks, including the development and installation of underwater piping systems, managing oil and gas extraction, and ensuring the structural integrity of subsea installations. Subsea Engineers use their deep understanding of marine technology and engineering principles to tackle complex challenges in this highly demanding and technologically advanced field.
Salary Range
AUD 120,000 to AUD 180,000 per annum. This range is influenced by factors such as the engineer’s experience, expertise, the complexity of the projects undertaken, and the location of the offshore sites.
Key Competencies and Skills
- Advanced knowledge of subsea systems and underwater engineering
- Proficient in the use of CAD software and engineering simulation tools
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to work under pressure
- Excellent project management and leadership abilities
- In-depth understanding of oceanography and marine geotechnics
- Familiarity with environmental compliance and safety standards in offshore operations
- Effective communication skills, capable of coordinating with multidisciplinary teams
- Resilience and adaptability, with a willingness to work in challenging marine environments
Qualifications
A Bachelor’s degree in Marine Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline that offers specialized knowledge in underwater technologies and engineering principles.
Health, safety, and environmental (HSE) certifications are vital for work in offshore and subsea operations. Additionally, certifications such as the Certified Subsea Engineer qualification can significantly enhance a professional’s credentials.
5. Aerospace Engineer
Role Overview
The Aerospace Engineer plays a fundamental role in the design, development, and testing of aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and missiles. This includes both civilian and military projects. They leverage a deep understanding of aerodynamics, avionics, propulsion, and materials science to create technologies that meet stringent safety, efficiency, and environmental standards. In addition to design and development, Aerospace Engineers are involved in testing prototypes to ensure they function according to design and are compliant with regulations.
Salary Range
AUD 100,000 to AUD 170,000 annually. This variation is dependent on the individual’s level of experience, the complexity of the engineering projects, and whether the role is within the public or private sector.
Key Competencies and Skills
- Deep theoretical and practical knowledge of aerospace systems and components
- Proficiency in computer-aided design (CAD) software and engineering simulation tools
- Strong analytical skills and ability to solve complex problems
- Excellent project management and organizational skills
- Thorough understanding of national and international aviation and space standards
- Exceptional communication skills, capable of working in interdisciplinary teams
- Commitment to continuous learning and staying abreast of technological advancements in the field
- Resilience and creativity, with a penchant for innovation and detail-oriented work
Qualifications
A Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Aeronautical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a directly related field.
Gaining practical exposure through internships or cooperative education programs within aerospace companies or research institutions is crucial.
Certifications from recognised professional bodies, such as Engineers Australia, denote a commitment to professional development and adherence to the highest engineering standards.
6. Telecommunications Engineer
Role Overview
The Telecommunications Engineer specializes in the design, oversight, and maintenance of telecommunications systems and infrastructure, including telephony, broadband, wireless communication, and satellite systems. This role entails a comprehensive understanding of both hardware and software aspects of telecommunications systems, ensuring their reliability, scalability, and security to meet current and future communications needs. Telecommunications Engineers are essential in the planning and execution of network installations and upgrades, troubleshooting and resolving issues, and integrating new technologies to enhance connectivity and performance.
Salary Range
AUD 90,000 to AUD 150,000 annually. Factors influencing this salary range include the individual’s expertise, the complexity of the telecommunications systems they manage, the industry in which they work, and the geographical location of their employment.
Key Competencies and Skills
- Comprehensive knowledge of telecommunications systems and protocols
- Proficiency in network architecture and infrastructure design
- Strong analytical skills and problem-solving abilities
- Skilled in the installation, configuration, and maintenance of telecommunications equipment
- Excellent project management capabilities
- Effective communication skills for collaborating with team members and interfacing with stakeholders
- Deep understanding of cybersecurity principles to safeguard telecommunications systems
- Commitment to staying updated on emerging technologies and industry developments
Qualifications
A Bachelor’s degree in Telecommunications Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related discipline from an accredited institution is essential.
Internships or entry-level positions that offer exposure to network design, installation, and troubleshooting provide invaluable insights and enhance employability in a competitive field.
Professional certifications, such as the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) or Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), are highly regarded within the industry.
7. Mining Engineer
Role Overview
Mining Engineers are crucial for extracting and processing earth’s minerals. They are involved in locating mineral deposits, designing and managing mines, and ensuring operations are safe, efficient, and environmentally friendly. Their work requires a mix of engineering skills to execute projects sustainably, improve safety, adopt new technologies, and reduce environmental impact while boosting production efficiency.
Salary Range
AUD 110,000 to AUD 160,000 annually. This salary range reflects the critical and specialised nature of the work, as well as the engineer’s experience, the type and location of the mine, and the specific demands of the mining project.
Key Competencies and Skills
- Profound knowledge of mining and geological engineering principles
- Experienced in the use of mining software and simulation tools
- Strong analytical skills and capability to solve complex problems
- Proficient in project management and operational planning
- Thorough understanding of health, safety, and environmental regulations in mining operations
- Excellent communication skills, enabling effective teamwork and stakeholder engagement
- Adaptability to work in diverse and challenging physical environments
- Commitment to lifelong learning and staying abreast of technological advancements and best practices in the mining sector
Qualifications
Prospective Mining Engineers must possess a Bachelor’s degree in Mining Engineering or a closely related field such as Geological Engineering or Earth Sciences.
Accreditation by Engineers Australia is crucial to ensure the quality and relevance of the educational program.
Internships or cooperative education programs during one’s studies are invaluable. Post-graduation, experience gained through entry-level positions or apprenticeships at mining sites contributes significantly to understanding the complexities of mining operations.
Professional certifications such as a First Aid Certificate, a Mine Managers Certificate of Competency, or safety-related certifications can enhance a candidate’s qualifications.
8. Electrical Power Systems Engineer
Role Overview
The Electrical Power Systems Engineer is integral in designing, analyzing, and managing systems that generate, distribute, and regulate electrical power. Essential to both everyday life and industrial operations, these professionals ensure the reliability and efficiency of power systems. Their responsibilities span from the initial conceptual design of power generation facilities and substations to overseeing the implementation of renewable energy sources, and the modernization of the grid to support smart grid technologies. They must navigate the challenges of meeting growing energy demands while minimizing environmental impact and adhering to stringent safety standards.
Salary Range
AUD 95,000 to AUD 165,000 annually. This range is influenced by several factors, including the engineer’s level of experience, the complexity of the power systems they design and manage, and the specific requirements of their role, whether it involves the integration of renewable energy sources or the development of smart grid technologies.
Key Competencies and Skills
- Profound understanding of electrical engineering principles and power systems
- Advanced skills in the design and analysis of power generation, transmission, and distribution systems
- Competence in using specialized software for electrical engineering and power system analysis
- Superior problem-solving abilities to address challenges in energy production and distribution
- Knowledge of current regulations and standards governing electrical power systems
- Strong project management skills and the ability to lead cross-functional teams
- Excellent communication skills for effective collaboration with engineers, technicians, and stakeholders
- A commitment to continually updating knowledge on advancements in power system technologies and renewable energy sources
Qualifications
A Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering is required. Specialisation in power systems through further education, such as a Master’s degree, is highly regarded.
Gaining recognition by Engineers Australia as a Chartered Professional Engineer (CPEng) signifies a level of expertise and commitment to ethical practice, which is essential for career advancement.
Internships, apprenticeships, or early career roles are critical.
Certifications in safety standards and renewable energy systems can enhance a candidate’s portfolio.
9. Renewable Energy Engineer
Role Overview
Renewable Energy Engineers play a pivotal role in creating and implementing technologies that utilise renewable sources like sun, wind, water, and biomass. Their work focuses on designing, optimising, and integrating renewable energy systems into existing grids efficiently and cost-effectively. They conduct feasibility studies, develop projects, oversee installations, and ensure compliance with regulations, contributing significantly to the global shift towards sustainable energy.
Salary Range
AUD 80,000 to AUD 140,000 annually. This salary range is indicative of the growing demand for professionals in this field and reflects the specialized skills required to innovate and implement renewable energy solutions.
Key Competencies and Skills
- Solid foundation in the principles of renewable energy technologies
- Proficiency in the design and analysis of systems that utilize wind, solar, hydroelectric, or biomass energies
- Ability to conduct environmental impact assessments and energy audits
- Skilled in the use of simulation and modeling tools specific to renewable energy applications
- Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities to optimize energy systems for efficiency and sustainability
- Effective project management skills, with the ability to oversee projects from conception through to completion
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for collaboration with fellow engineers, technicians, policymakers, and stakeholders
- Commitment to continuous learning about advancements in renewable energy technologies and sustainability practices.
Qualifications
A Bachelor’s degree in Engineering with a focus on renewable energy, environmental engineering, or mechanical engineering is essential. A postgraduate degree in a related field is highly valued.
Achieving Chartered Status with Engineers Australia as a Chartered Professional Engineer (CPEng) demonstrates a recognised level of professionalism and competence in renewable energy engineering.
10. Machine Learning Engineer
Role Overview
Machine Learning Engineers are at the cutting edge of technology, developing algorithms and models that enable machines to perform tasks without being explicitly programmed. These professionals harness vast amounts of data to build intelligent systems that can improve over time, making predictions or decisions based on their learning. Their work spans various sectors, including finance, healthcare, retail, and autonomous vehicles, contributing to advancements in artificial intelligence that are transforming our world. Machine Learning Engineers collaborate closely with data scientists and software engineers to create scalable, efficient AI systems that handle complex data sets and perform high-level computations.
Salary Range
AUD 100,000 to AUD 180,000 annually. This reflects the high demand for these professionals and the specialized skills they bring to the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence and machine learning.
Key Competencies and Skills
- Profound expertise in machine learning algorithms and models, including supervised and unsupervised learning, deep learning, and reinforcement learning
- Strong proficiency in programming languages such as Python, R, and Java, and in using machine learning frameworks like TensorFlow and PyTorch
- Ability to handle large-scale data sets and perform complex data analysis
- Skilled in the application of advanced mathematical and statistical concepts to develop and optimize algorithms
- Excellent problem-solving skills to tackle nuanced challenges in AI development and deployment
- Knowledgeable about software development practices and tools, facilitating the integration of machine learning models into larger systems
- Superior communication skills for effective cross-disciplinary collaboration and simplifying complex concepts for non-technical stakeholders
- A commitment to continuous learning and staying updated with the latest in machine learning research and technologies
Qualifications
A Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, or a related technical field is foundational. A Master’s degree or PhD in Machine Learning, AI, or Data Science significantly enhances job prospects and expertise.
Australian Cities with the Highest Paid Engineering Jobs in Australia
The landscape of engineering employment in Australia reflects a varied and dynamic economy, with certain cities emerging as hubs for high paying engineering jobs. These urban centres attract diverse engineering disciplines, reflecting their specific industries, technological advancements, and infrastructure needs.
Sydney, New South Wales
Sydney is the financial and economic powerhouse of Australia, leads in offering high paying jobs for engineers across multiple disciplines. Known for its rapid technological advancement and bustling construction sector, Sydney demands skilled Professionals in civil, software, and telecommunications engineering. The city’s commitment to sustainable development and infrastructure projects equally opens lucrative opportunities for civil and environmental engineers.
Melbourne, Victoria
Melbourne is renowned for its innovative technology sector and dynamic manufacturing industry, making it a prime location for mechanical, electrical, and software engineers. The city’s focus on technology and digital innovation drives the need for machine learning engineers and professionals specialized in AI development, reflecting a competitive salary range in these fields.
Brisbane, Queensland
Brisbane boasts a thriving aerospace sector and is a significant player in Australia’s resources and mining industry. This positions the city as a leading destination for aerospace, mechanical, and mining engineers looking for high paying jobs. Furthermore Brisbane’s ongoing infrastructure projects offer promising opportunities for civil and environmental engineers.
Perth, Western Australia
Perth is the heart of Australia’s mining and energy sectors, contributing to its reputation for having some of the highest paid engineering jobs in chemical, petroleum, and renewable energy engineering. Engineers in these sectors are highly sought after for their expertise in managing and optimizing the extraction and production of natural resources.
Adelaide, South Australia
Adelaide is emerging as a centre of defence, manufacturing, and research and development, offering lucrative positions for electrical, aerospace, and software engineers. The city’s investment in renewable energy projects also creates a demand for renewable energy engineers, with competitive salaries to attract top talent.
The economic and industrial diversity of these cities shapes not only the engineering job market in Australia but also underscores the importance of geographical location in career planning. Engineers looking to maximize their earning potential should consider these urban centres when seeking employment opportunities in Australia.
Job Outlook for Engineers in Australia (2019-2024)
The engineering sector in Australia has shown remarkable growth from 2019 to 2024, with a particular emphasis on high paying engineering jobs. This period has witnessed a surge in demand for skilled engineers across various disciplines, driven by technological advancements, infrastructure projects, and sustainability initiatives.
Trends in High Salary Engineering Jobs:
Regional Opportunities: While major cities offer numerous high paying engineering jobs, regional areas are increasingly providing competitive salaries, especially for roles in infrastructure and resource management.
Consistent Growth: All engineering disciplines have seen salary increases, with the highest paying roles experiencing the most significant jumps. For instance, civil engineering salaries have risen from AUD 75,000 – 120,000 in 2019 to AUD 88,000 – 153,000 in 2024.
Emerging Fields: Environmental engineering is rapidly becoming one of the engineering jobs with high salary potential, reflecting the growing focus on sustainability. Salaries have increased from AUD 80,000 – 115,000 in 2019 to AUD 90,000 – 140,000 in 2024.
Industry Demand: Mechanical and electrical engineering continue to offer high paying opportunities, particularly in sectors like mining, energy, and manufacturing. These roles consistently rank among the highest pay engineering jobs in Australia.
Specialization Premium: The highest paid engineering jobs in Australia often require specialized skills or experience in emerging technologies. Engineers who combine technical expertise with skills in AI, robotics, or renewable energy technologies are particularly well-compensated.
The job outlook for engineers in Australia has been strong and continues to show positive trends through 2024. Below is a detailed table showcasing the salary variations across different engineering disciplines over the past five years, along with insights into their current demand.
Ways to Upskill for Australia’s Engineering Job Market
Formal Education and Certifications
Success in engineering often hinges on practical skills and innovative problem-solving. High paying engineering jobs value technical skills, adaptability, and a track record of results. To remain competitive in the engineering field, formal education and professional certifications are foundational pillars that bolster a candidate’s credibility and expertizse to be counted among the highest paid engineers.
Relevant Short Courses in Universities and Technical Institutes
Many universities and technical institutes worldwide offer comprehensive courses tailored to meet the evolving demands of the high paying engineering Jobs . In Australia, institutions like the University of Melbourne, the Australian National University, and the University of Sydney are known for their high-quality engineering faculties.
Online Courses and Certifications
Online courses and certifications have become a valuable resource for engineers looking to upskill without the time commitment required by traditional degree programs. Platforms like Coursera, edX, Udacity, and LinkedIn Learning offer courses. which permit you to qualified for these high paying engineering jobs.
Internships and Apprenticeships
Aspiring engineers can gain valuable industry experience through internships or apprenticeships. Internships offer practical insights and networking opportunities, while apprenticeships provide structured, paid training leading to certifications. Internships offering the added benefit of possible direct entry into high paying engineering jobs.
Professional Associations and Online Forums
Professional associations and online forums represent critical pillars within the broader scope of formal education and certifications for engineers. These platforms offer a wealth of resources, including access to industry journals, cutting-edge research, and exclusive member benefits such as specialized training and webinars.
Membership in these associations often opens doors to a wide array of professional development opportunities and community engagement.
Conclusions
The sections of this article, outlining the role overviews, expected salary ranges, and key competencies and skills for the10 Highest Paid Engineering Jobs in Australia in 2024, have been curated from a variety of authoritative sources. These include the Australian Government’s Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources, the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA), and professional associations such as Engineers Australia and the Australian Computer Society (ACS). Salary data has been extrapolated from the Australian Government’s Job Outlook portal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources
- Engineering Institute of Technology – Top Engineering Careers – EIT
- Worley Engineering Careers – Worley
- CIMIC Group Engineering Opportunities – CIMIC Group
- Randstad Engineering Salary Guide – Randstad Australia
- Michael Page Engineering Salary Guide 2024 – Michael Page Australia
- Australian Government Job Outlook for Engineers – Australian Government Job Outlook
- Engineers Australia – Salary and Benefits Survey – Engineers Australia
- Hays Salary Guide Australia 2024 – Hays Australia
- Gramerci Employment Outlook 2024 – Gramerci
- Robert Walters Australia Salary Survey 2024 – Robert Walters
